2002 Mazda 6 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 128 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 6 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
